Maui Attractions
Haleakala Crater, Maui © HVCB/Ron Dahlquist
Haleakala National Park
The Haleakala National Park extends from the summit of the
volcano, down into the crater, then across the volcano's southeast
slopes to Maui's east coast, beyond the town of Hana. The main
reason for the park being visited by nearly one and a half million
people a year, is the attraction of peering down into the crater of
what is the world's largest dormant volcano. Haleakala last erupted
in 1790, and has been deadly quiet ever since, although it is not
considered to be inactive. The massive crater covers 19 square
miles (49 sq km): big enough to hold the whole of Manhattan.
Hawaiians regard the crater as a sacred site. It is possible to
drive to the summit along a twisting road that climbs 10,000 feet
(3,000m) in just 37 miles (60km); visitors can also explore the
desolate landscape inside the crater on hiking or biking trails.
There are numerous other opportunities for recreational activities
in the National Park too. The Park's headquarters just inside the
park entrance provides information of activities and programmes
offered. The Haleakala Visitor Centre near the summit of the
volcano explains, via exhibits, the history, ecology, geology and
volcanology of the area.
Website: www.nps.gov/hale;
Telephone: (808) 572 4400;
Opening time: Headquarters Visitor Center: daily 8am to 4pm; Haleakala Visitor Center: daily from 6.30am to 3.30pm; Kipahulu Visitor Center: daily 9am to 5pm;
Admission: The admission fees of $10 per vehicle or $5 per individual, valid for seven days, provides access to both the Summit and Kipahulu areas of the park
